Self care is the key to inner peace
Ahhhh!
As a Holistic Stress Management Instructor and coach, I advocate SELF CARE as being the key to inner peace. You might be thinking,”I don’t have time for self care everyday”, “I already have a full schedule”, or, “30 minutes for myself each day sounds preposterous!”. I can understand. Most of us hit the ground running in the morning and don’t quit until late in the evening. We are busy reacting to the daily routine of things that have to get done- cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping, bill paying, car pooling, being a nurse, Mom and spouse are all tiring. I get it!
Self Care will actually energize you.
I recommend spending 30 minutes for yourself each day. You can take it in (3) 10 minute intervals, (2) 15 minute blocks or enjoy the full effect of relaxation in a 30 minute time slot. However you can manage it, you will benefit from the effects. In turn, you will be more relaxed, aware, and renewed to face your daily challenges. You will have a better outlook, develop an attitude of gratitude and will look forward to your daily solace.
Here are some ideas of what you can do to “fill your cup”, to be more mindful, and most of all aware of yourself, your surroundings and your affect on your family.
Affirmations
Changing your negative thoughts into positive thoughts by noticing your positive qualities and strengths. I encourage you to find a saying that “speaks” to you and post your affirmation in places that you will be reminded to practice reinforcing through out the day.
Visualization
Helps you connect with your inner spirit through music,creativity, humor and images. Daydreaming is a typical way to visualize images. We usually think of daydreaming with tranquil scenes of mountains, beaches, a favorite safe place or a favorite vacation spot that lets you escape stress.
Journaling
Writing your thoughts and feelings on paper brings clarity. Journaling releases emotions in a positive way. You will learn to own what you are feeling. Writing emotions down helps you to open up, disclose feelings, perceptions, memories and opinions.
Exercise
Gives you natural endorphins that energize you. These endorphins give you a tranquil feeling, thus, exercise is the most popular form of stress relief.
Good Nutrition
Healthy food choices promote a sense of well being, and physical balance. The media, newspaper, internet, magazines, etc. are bursting with healthy tips- find which ones fit your individual tastes.
Assertiveness
The practice of voicing your feelings in a positive way so that you can be heard and understood. This prevents a build up of emotions conjured up from the woulda, coulda, shoulda complex.
Time Management
Organizing your time prevents procrastination. You learn to pace and balance yourself by setting realistic time goals. Time management also helps you to prioritize, to clarify your values. as a result, you will get more done in a days time.
Obviously, there are more ways to manage stress. These are just some of my favorites. There are many ways of finding out more about these methods. Explore the ones that seem to be a good fit, try them out and see what relief coping skills will bring. These simple steps will become part of your daily routine; the part of the day you will anticipate! Be the leader for modeling self care to your family.
Here is one of the best books to assist you with practicing your skills:
The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook
By Martha davis, Ph.D, Elizabeth Robbins, MSW, Matthew McKay, Ph.D
Enjoy your new found freedom. release your inner self. Give yourself permission to let go- if only for 30 minutes a day! I can understand. Most of us hit the ground running in the morning and don’t quit until late in the evening. We are busy reacting to the daily routine of things that have to get done- cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping, bill paying, car pooling, being a nurse, Mom and spouse are all tiring. I get it!
Enjoy your new found freedom. release your inner self. Give yourself permission to let go- if only for 30 minutes a day!
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